Can an Adjoining Owner Request to See a Draft Party Wall Award?
posted 5th August 2025
We are often asked by adjoining owners whether they are entitled to see a draft copy of the Party Wall Award before it is formally served. While this may seem a reasonable request, the short answer is no — and there are sound legal and procedural reasons behind this.
Why You Cannot Be Shown a Draft Award
A Party Wall Award is a legal document produced by a surveyor (or surveyors) acting statutorily, not on behalf of either party. Sharing a draft before formal service prejudices the rights of both the adjoining owner and the building owner, and compromises the impartiality of the process.
Surveyors are under a duty to act independently and impartially in the making of an award. Allowing one party to view or comment on a draft before it is served could be construed as improper influence or bias. Accordingly, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides no entitlement for either party to see a draft.
What a Good Surveyor Can Do
Although a draft award cannot be shared, a diligent surveyor should provide a clear indication of the content and scope of the award. This may include:
• The general nature of the proposed works;
• Access arrangements;
• Hours of working;
• Protection measures for the adjoining property;
• A summary of any Schedule of Condition;
• The allocation of surveyors’ fees.
Additionally, some surveyors may be willing to share a generic template award to help parties understand the usual structure and content. While this is no substitute for the actual document, it can provide helpful context and reassurance.
Why Asking for a Draft Copy May Backfire
We recently acted for a building owner in a case where the adjoining owner’s surveyor improperly provided their client with a copy of the draft award. The document was then referred to the Third Surveyor, who determined that the action constituted a serious procedural breach. The result? The adjoining owner was made liable not only for the Third Surveyor’s fees, but also the costs associated with our preparation of the referral.
This case highlights the risks of stepping outside the statutory process. Attempts to intervene prematurely in the preparation of an award can lead to unintended financial and legal consequences.
In Summary
• You are not entitled to see a draft award before it is served.
• This protects the integrity of the statutory process and both parties’ rights.
• You may request a general explanation or a template for context.
• Improper access to a draft award could result in cost penalties.
If you are an adjoining owner with concerns about an impending award, speak to your appointed surveyor. A competent and impartial professional will guide you through the process and ensure your interests are fully considered — all within the bounds of the law.
